Resume Tips You May Not Know — Margaret Fox

The air is getting colder, the leaves are getting crispier and we’re slowly letting go of our iced coffees (keyword: slowly). That can only mean one thing – it’s time to update the resume.

Wait, what?

Yes, you read that correctly. If you haven’t started updating your resume and LinkedIn, or at least thinking about what kind of internships you would like to pursue, now is the time to start. Preparing and planning will only help you! Let’s get into it!

1. Type out the URL of your LinkedIn profile. You never know what will happen with your resume. It may get printed out, and while hyperlinks are great, they don’t work on paper. So, type out the URL of your LinkedIn profile and make this a hyperlink. (This is what mine looks like: linkedin.com/in/margaretwfox).
2. Don’t include a headshot. Many Canva resume templates (like, a lot) include a space for a headshot. It’s best not to do this – including a headshot on your resume can create bias. Let the words on the page speak to who you are and what you can do. If a recruiter wants to see your face, your LinkedIn is right there. Also, a headshot will take up valuable space on your resume. Use your space wisely and delete the headshot.
3. Create a Master Resume. Open a blank document and write down every role you have had, where and when you did it, what you did, and the company name and your manager. Though I don’t expect to include my lifeguarding job on my resume, it’s useful to have a record of it, just in case I need a reference or general refresher. Keep this list updated and thorough. That way, if you need to swap one experience out for another when you apply to a certain position, you have an easy way to access it.
4. Include a personal statement. This is challenging, but I highly encourage it. It will help you get clear on what your strengths and interests are. Take a personality quiz or two to help if you aren’t sure where to start. Then connect those strengths with things you have done. Personal statements are great because they can be customized to fit the role you’re applying for. A company wants an intern who is skilled in content creation and managing social media? Add that exact phrase to your personal statement. That will help your resume stand out!

Updating your resume is stressful, but remember that you are helping yourself by starting now. Plan a general layout. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and feedback from your peers and professors. You can always change it. Good luck!